2012 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Matt Dumba

The Pittsburgh Penguins and CONSOL Energy Center will be hosting the 2012 NHL Draft on June 22nd and 23rd. In the days leading up to the event, pittsburghpenguins.com will be putting the spotlight on some of the best and brightest draft-eligible prospects.

Dominating the Western Hockey League over the 2011-12 season, Matt Dumba has propelled himself into the discussion as one of the top defensemen in the 2012 NHL Draft. Many scouts consider the Calgary native as the most offensively gifted defenseman in this year’s class, filling the highlight reels with stunning one-timers from the point and displaying slick puck-handling abilities. The hard-hitting blueliner finished second on the Red Deer Rebels in points (20G-37A-57P) and led the team with nine power-play goals. Dumba’s 20 tallies were second most in the WHL for a defenseman and most for a Rebel blueliner since current Toronto Maple Leaf Dion Phaneuf lit the lamp 24 times in 2005. Dumba was given the “C” for Canada as he continued to shine at the 2012 World Under-18 Championships, leading the tournament in assists (7) and points (5G-7A-12P), helping Canada earn the bronze medal.

“A devastating hitter whose hits can change the complexion of the game, he now targets a player’s most vulnerable angles, reserving such contact for strong take-outs along the wall or behind the net with proper puck support. The offensive dynamo’s other gifts remain intact. A bullish puck handler who tucks the puck between his skates for maximum elusiveness, Dumba’s point shot may be the hardest and quickest amongst all NHL draft-eligible defenseman.”
-McKeen’s Hockey